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Interview by Amrita Choudahary
[In the city for the tenth anniversary celebrations of the
Brahmasthanam Temple, Mata Amritanandamayi Devi talks about
peace, contentment and spirituality.]
What do you have to say about violence in the name of religion?
Violence and hatred in the name of faith and religion has
been there since time immemorial. It happens because people
are ignorant about the basic principles of religion and the
lack of understanding of oneself. There are two aspects of
religion and people tend to get carried away and give more
importance to the rituals rather than the spiritual aspect.
However religion cannot be rejected as it is a part of life
and one needs to follow some basic principles of dharma to
maintain harmony in society.
What does peace mean to you?
Real peace comes from creating equilibrium in life. We must
be able to face all circumstances in life with a balanced
approach. Religious principles help us strike this balance;
however even in spiritual practices there are certain guidelines
that one must follow. Once should not go overboard but follow
the master's word, as every individual is different.
Most people are always looking for contentment but it
keeps eluding them?
Contentment is an attitude. It is a feeling that comes from
within and there is no point in looking for contentment from
the material world. People who do so are constantly 'taking
from others', however we should have the willingness to 'give'.
What is your message for today's women?
In the olden time, the role of women was confined to homes
but today they have multiple roles as they have stepped into
various fields. Men therefore should have a certain degree
of understanding and should awaken to this reality. She should
not be restricted from doing what she wants as man will then
keep holding her back rather than letting her free to bloom.
What a woman needs to remember is that she should be patient
and loving.
Do you think the youth is moving towards spiritualism? What
message do you have for them?
There is a certain inquisitiveness and enthusiasm visible
in the society but a deeper understanding of religion is required
to sustain this trend. The youth get addicted to all kinds
of vices because of lack of understanding of culture and land
up as pest infested flowers in their budding stage. They should
spare some time once in a while and visit ten families to
see the sorrows and sufferings of people. This will give them
a better understanding of life, help them grow and might also
get rid of their extravagance.
One of your most cherished memories…
I cherish every incident-big or small. I am like a river,
flowing through places and accepting all that comes my way.
Every person is unique and has special qualities within them.
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